The case for Compression does not rest on the slow increase in global temperature. It is a multiple-challenge manifesto. Many dangers cannot be anticipated in detail with great certainty, but imprecision is no reason for complacency. Too many distant alarm bells keep getting louder. Disruptions in chemical or biochemical balances may threaten human survival as much as any climate change. And were there no credible environmental threats, just the increasing complexity of 21st century work will force us in a direction somewhat like vigorous learning organizations.
The surest way to ameliorate all threats, known and unknown, is to simply create less disruption — learn how to live well without using excess resources. So first, conserve — use much less. Second, as best we can, carefully project unintended consequences of our processes to promote health, happiness, and well-being. Work with natural processes rather than pretend that technology can fully conquer them. We even have to beware of unintended cross-talk between our electronic devices — electromagnetic pollution.